Planning commission recommends changes to agritourism overlay zone, backs Staley Farms application

The Washington City Planning Commission on March 19 recommended that the City Council consider amendments to the agritourism business overlay zone (Title 9-12-D) proposed by Staley Farms, forwarding the ordinance with changes that aim to preserve an agricultural character while easing some application requirements.

The commission voted to recommend approval of the applicant’s proposed revisions with specific edits: change “family activities” to “agricultural family activities,” delete the codified 30% land-coverage limit for agritourism uses while retaining the provision that the remaining acreage be maintained in a manner consistent with the farm’s primary agricultural uses and historic condition, and align acreage thresholds for wedding venues and family activities so they match. Commissioner Anderson moved for the recommendation; Commissioner Mitchell seconded. The motion passed on an affirmative vote from Commissioners Shield, Mitchell, Tupelo, Davis and Bullock; the item will go to City Council with a recommendation of approval.

Why it matters: The ordinance governs how working farms that host tourism and events — such as corn mazes, farm camps and wedding venues — are treated under the city’s zoning code. Supporters said the current code’s requirements have discouraged applications and that modern agritourism operators need flexibility; opponents and some commissioners urged guardrails to keep properties agricultural in practice.

Staff presentation and…